Resume vs. LinkedIn: Know the Difference

Back in the days, job search used to be a simple task. Identify a job posting, email a copy of your resume with your cover letter and anxiously wait for an interesting response. Today, as your online presence evolves, the screening process has become far more meticulous. Before inviting you for an interview, employers will typically perform a search on Google and LinkedIn to carry out more check on your resume. However, the newest trends show that many recruiters prefer LinkedIn. Don’t be fooled by this trend; it is still imperative to have a resume as well. See LinkedIn as your door to connect with the right people, and your Resume as your key to be hired!

Below are 5 ways your LinkedIn profile should be different than your resume.

1. Different purpose

The main purposes of writing a resume are to secure an interview and get you hired. Though recruiters nowadays use LinkedIn to hire people, the primary goal is to keep you connected and to help you be aware of the things going on in your area of expertise. However, both the resume and Linked talks more about you and career, LinkedIn works more like a preview of your skills, knowledge, and experiences. While the goal of a resume is to help you meet the requirement of the job you’re sending your resume for.

2. Dynamics

Regarding dynamics, a resume offers less rich experience compared to LinkedIn. Resume contains only the relevant information that’s related to the requirements of the job you’re applying for. LinkedIn, on the other hand, is dynamic and ever-changing. Also, your LinkedIn profile is shaped by your connections while the resume is between you and the hiring manager. LinkedIn gives the opportunity for people to endorse you for your skills, or write recommendations for you or even share what you publish.

3. Relevance

A resume and LinkedIn vary considerably talking of significance. All of your previous and current career info can be included in your LinkedIn profile, while a resume should contain only the information concerning the job offer. But note, LinkedIn is not a job site but instead there to find you a job, so your resume should always be tailored to a particular job offer. A hiring manager will only read about you on LinkedIn after they read your resume.

4. Length and info

Is recommended to keep your resume one to two pages long since it contains the details related to the position you’re applying for. However, there is no limit to how long you can go using LinkedIn. The length and scope of LinkedIn profiles are one of the reasons why some recruiter still choose resumes. It takes a recruiter some seconds to examine the candidate, so going over a LinkedIn profile will not be time efficient.

5. Photo

Back then adding a picture your resume was the standard practice. But nowadays this can be an advantage for the recruiter to be biased. However, the LinkedIn profile contains a photo (optional). But profiles including photos look more professional. Note that you should choose your photo wisely (professional headshot is recommended). You can also add a background photo on LinkedIn (choosing one related to the industry is recommended).

Always ensure that your resume is consistent and mirrors your online profile – specifically that on LinkedIn. A LinkedIn profile sends an essential message to any recruiter or hiring manager; that you’re not obsolete and that you understand the importance of the Web in securing a job and its importance in the business world.